ANSWERS TO WORKSHEET 1

1. Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic which kills multiple species of bacteria by

inhibiting DNA replication. Is it:
a. Bactericidal or bacteriostatic? Bacteriostatic
b. Broad or narrow spectrum? Broad spectrum
2. Draw an outline of a bacterial cell, including the cellular contents, and
label all the areas. Circle areas where antibiotics are active.

3. How do viruses differ from bacteria?

Viruses do not have their own cell machinery for DNA replication, protein
synthesis or metabolism. Viruses rely on a host cell for survival. Viruses also
do not have a cell wall, unlike bacteria. The virus structure is composed of a
capsid, glycoproteins and nucleic acid.
4. What is the difference between conjugation and transformation?
Conjugation: direct transfer of genetic material and DNA between two
bacterial cells Transformation: DNA is released from one bacterium and
taken up by another, and there is no direct contact between the two
bacteria.
5. How are resistant bacteria spread throughout the community? List as
many methods of transmission as you can think of.
Direct skin to skin contact
Touching surfaces, including vegetables and raw meat
Breathing in microbes in the air
Sexual contact
Poor hygiene after visiting the toilet
Water in countries without good sanitation or contaminated with
animal slurry
Eating food containing or contaminated with resistant bacteria
Contact with animals carrying resistant bacteria

6. The correct use of antibiotics can prevent the increase in antibiotic

resistance. How should antibiotics be used correctly?
Take as prescribed by a doctor or nurse: Do not take for mild infections. Selfcare first before going to the GP. Only take for bacterial infections and not
viral infections Do not share antibiotics or take them for a different infection
Finish the course of antibiotics
7. Create a slogan or poster title that can be used to promote correct
antibiotic use to the public